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A Message from Stephen

Dear Neighbor,

 

I’m eager to share some important updates from City Hall.

 

Recently, the City Council unanimously passed my Safe Streets Resolution, which lays the groundwork for making our roads safer for everyone—drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike.

 

This is a significant step toward reducing traffic-related injuries and fatalities, ensuring that our neighborhoods are safer.

 

In addition, thanks to your valuable input, my office published our first FY26 Budget Priorities Memorandum, outlining key areas where I believe we need to focus our resources to continue improving the quality of life in our community.

 

From addressing homelessness and affordable housing to enhancing public safety and investing in infrastructure, my goal is to ensure we’re building a San Diego that works for everyone.

 

As always, I’m grateful for your continued support and engagement.

 

Yours in service,

 

Stephen

 
San Diego County Water Authority Logo

Unanimous Passing of the Safe Streets Resolution

Thank you to Council President Sean Elo-Rivera for joining me in supporting a resolution for safer streets.

 

This initiative directs the Independent Budget Analyst to thoroughly review our current transportation policies to pinpoint where we can improve, act more quickly, and implement real solutions—right now.

 

Together, we’re committed to making our streets safer for everyone.

 
Photo of Councilmember Stephen Whitburn

Renaming of Grape Street Dog Park to Officer Tonahill and Officer Ruopp Memorial Park

Grape Street Dog Park has been renamed in honor of Officer Kimberly Tonahill and Officer Timothy Ruopp, two San Diego Police Officers who tragically lost their lives in the line of duty at this park 40 years ago.

 

This renaming stands as a lasting tribute to their bravery, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to our community.

 

Their legacy will forever be remembered.

 

 Unveiling of Permanent Memorial Honoring Victims of PSA Flight 182

46 years ago, our community was forever altered by the tragic PSA Flight 182 crash, a devastating event that claimed many lives and left a lasting mark on San Diego.

 

I am proud to share that we have fulfilled the promise of a lasting memorial.

 

At the corner of Dwight & Nile, a plaque now serves as a tribute to the victims, their families, and all those impacted by this heartbreaking event.

 

My deepest gratitude goes out to the families, advocates, and community members who never gave up hope. Your perseverance has ensured that the memory of this tragedy—and those we lost—will never be forgotten. 

 
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It was great to see so many residents at community events in September. I appreciated our conversations about how we can keep improving our neighborhoods. Below are highlights of some of those September events.

Ride with Pride Photo

Serving Seniors 20,000,000th Meal Celebration

Congratulations to Serving Seniors for reaching the incredible milestone of 20 million meals served!

 

Their unwavering commitment to our city’s seniors provides them with not just a meal, but a community where they can stay engaged, supported, and thrive.

District 3 Community Team with Councilmember Whitburn
 

Ribbon Cutting for KNEAD Bakery

I want to extend my congratulations to Executive Chef Adrian Mendoza and Brian Lee on the grand opening of Knead Bakery in Downtown! 

 

Knead Bakery promises to be a fantastic addition to our community, and I’m excited to see their vision come to life.

District 3 Community Team with Councilmember Whitburn
 

United Against Hate Week

I joined Councilmember Raul Campillo, community leaders, and the San Diego Police Department in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community and other communities.

 

Recent targeted attacks are a sobering reminder of the real impacts of hate, but we are committed to ensuring it does not divide us or undermine the inclusive values that define San Diego.

 

Together, we will continue to promote safety, unity, and equality for all.

Councilmember Stephen Whitburn at South Park Dayside Walk
 

Assistant Chief David Gerboth Day

After 23 years of dedicated service with San Diego’s Fire-Rescue Department, Assistant Fire Chief David Gerboth is beginning a new chapter as the Fire Chief for the City of Salem.

 

We are grateful for his bravery and commitment to keeping our community safe.

 

 Other Highlights

Mayor Gloria signing the FY25 Budget with city leaders at his side

Back to School Supplies Delivery

We were delighted to deliver supplies to our students and teachers at schools in District 3! Thank you to all those who donated supplies, spread the word and sponsored our K-12 Back to School Drive. Our office received hundreds of items and our District 3 students, their families, and teachers are delighted to have these new supplies.

    

 

City of San Diego Celebrates 1,650 Miles of Road Repairs

In my role as Chair of the Active Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I joined Mayor Gloria, Councilmember Moreno and other City officials to extend our thanks to our dedicated city staff for their efforts in repairing 1,650 lane miles of roads! Their hard work ensures safer and smoother journeys for all our residents.

 
Photo of Gaslamp Quarter

Balboa Park in District 3.

Upcoming Events in District 3

Our District is the perfect place for entertainment, dining, and sightseeing! Check out all of the upcoming events and get to know all that District 3 has to offer:

  • Italian Film Festival: Tuesday, October 1 to Saturday, October 12 at Museum of Photographic Arts in Balboa Park.
  • Taste of North Park: Saturday, October 5 from 11:00 AM to 3:30 PM in North Park.
  • Meet San Diego's Poet Laureate: Thursday, October 17 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Civic Center Concourse, 202 C Street.
  • 2024 Zombie Crawl and Day of the Dead: Friday, October 25 from 6:00 PM to 2:00 AM at 628 Fifth Avenue.
 
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In the News

Throughout the month of September, I had the opportunity to appear on local news outlets to speak on important topics such as the PSA 182 Flight Memorial, the new MTS Copper Trolley Line, my Safe Streets Resolution, and United Against Hate Week.

 
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